NBA standout Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was recently named Canada’s athlete of the year for the second time, surpassing swimming sensation Summer McIntosh in a vote by sports-media professionals across the nation. Gilgeous-Alexander had an outstanding year, achieving remarkable success in the NBA, clinching both regular-season and Finals MVP titles, securing the scoring championship, and earning his first NBA championship with the Oklahoma City Thunder. He continues to excel this season, propelling OKC to a 23-1 record while leading in points per possession and ranking second in points per game behind Luka Doncic of the Lakers. Despite McIntosh’s impressive achievements, including breaking multiple world records and clinching gold medals at the world championships, Gilgeous-Alexander’s stellar performance ultimately earned him the prestigious Northern Star Award.
The competition between Gilgeous-Alexander and McIntosh for the Northern Star has been ongoing for the past three years. Gilgeous-Alexander claimed the award in 2023, leading the Canadian men’s national team to its first Olympic berth in 25 years and a historic bronze at the Basketball World Cup. McIntosh secured the honor last year after her remarkable performance at the Olympics. Looking ahead, Gilgeous-Alexander appears poised to be a strong contender for the award next year, with McIntosh facing a tougher road due to the absence of major swimming competitions in 2026.
Going forward, Winter Olympians are likely contenders for the Northern Star Award, given Canada’s anticipated success at the upcoming Winter Olympics in Italy. Hockey star Connor McDavid, short-track speed skater Will Dandjinou, curler Rachel Homan, and women’s hockey captain Marie-Philip Poulin are among the top candidates for the award next year, each with a compelling story and potential for outstanding achievements in their respective sports.